General FAQ

An ashram is a spiritual community formed around the body of teachings from a particular guru and lineage. Yasodhara Ashram is based on the teachings of Swami Sivananda Radha and is open to people of all backgrounds to pursue their spiritual development. Yasodhara Ashram is both a residential spiritual community, with residents who live here year-round, and a yoga retreat and study centre, open to guests and students.

We practice a holistic yoga based on a lineage of teachings from Swami Radha, who studied with Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh. There is an emphasis on the spiritual traditions of yoga. Our approach includes Karma Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Dream Yoga. The Hatha Yoga and Hidden Language Hatha Yoga we teach here is gentle and reflective. Learn more about our practices »Combining yoga practices with personal development techniques, our teachings create a bridge to the spiritual dimension while supporting the aspiration to live our practice in daily life.

A swami is a person who has made a commitment to a life of renunciation and selfless service. Similar to a nun or monk, swamis take a different name and are initiated into mantras that emphasize redirecting energy to the Divine and away from the illusions of the world.

Satsang translates to “in the company of the wise.” It is a spiritual service where the community gathers together in devotion and prayer. Ritual, mantra, bhajans and inspirational talks are all part of the nightly tradition.